Shock gloves purchased by ICE cause intense pain and quick compliance, Army study finds

A previously unreleased Army study found that shock gloves caused intense pain and quickly stopped resistance during an exercise at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, in October 2024.

Army employees acting as combative prisoners stopped resisting within seconds after officers applied the gloves. The study also reported lingering soreness and concern about being shocked again.

The exercise tested the gloves in scenarios involving cell removals, disturbances and inmate transport. Researchers said compliance came faster than with other methods, and the device boosted smaller or less-trained staff members’ confidence.

ICE obtained the study as part of a six-month deal covering gloves, equipment and services. Each glove costs $2,495. ICE says it needs tools to help officers manage dangerous situations, but American Oversight’s Chioma Chukwu argued the study does not demonstrate the gloves are safe.

ICE released the records in response to a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit. White House border czar Tom Homan said deployment could take time as training and policies are developed; ICE has not addressed questions about the study or rollout, and senators are seeking details about use and training.